Joe Wright: Keira Knightley is 'more than a muse'

Keira Knightley plays the title role in this British drama film adapted from Leo Tolstoy's 1877 novel of the same name. Set in late-19th-century Russia high-society, aristocrat Anna Karenina (Knightley) is trapped in a loveless marriage when she decides to enter into a life-changing affair with the affluent Count Vronsky. Directed by Joe Wright, the film also stars Jude Law, Aaron Johnson, Kelly MacDonald & Matthew Macfadyen.

The award-winning director - who has previously worked with Keira on 'Pride & Prejudice' and 'Atonement' - says it was a no brainer to cast the brunette beauty as his leading lady in his ambitious adaptation of Leo Tolstoy's classic novel 'Anna Karenina' because she is such an inspiring actress, friend and collaborator.

Speaking at the world premiere of 'Anna Karenina' in London's Leicester square last night (04.09.12), Joe told BANG Showbiz: ''She's more than a muse, she's a collaborator and that's far more important.

''[She brings] intelligence, energy, vitality, passion and beauty.''

Joe revealed it's always a joy to work with the 27-year-old star as they have both developed creatively since they first met on the set of 'Pride & Prejudice' and understand each other's visions perfectly.

He explained: ''We both developed as people. We're both quite different as people then how we were when we met... she was 18.

''We've grown and we've had experiences that have formed our approach to our craft.

''Keira and I know each other so well in terms of our craft I'm not quite sure which are my ideas and which are hers, which is a nice way to be!''

Joe also admitted he felt compelled to put his own theatrical stamp on the story of Russian aristocrat Anna Karenina's life-changing affair with Count Vronsky because he identified with the age-old tale of love and loss.

He said: ''It's a timeless story in the sense that it's a domestic drama. It's about the experience of love and how we cope with it.

''It had emotional relevance all the way along. I see every job as an opportunity to learn. I had a great tutor, Sir Tom Stoppard to guide me along.''

Jude Law, Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Matthew Macfadyen also walked the red carpet under the glittering chandeliers last night.